Discover, Dine, and Play: Cebu’s Growing Collection of Destination Attractions Captivates Travelers

 

Discover fun and adventure at Cebu Fun Park, one of the featured attractions within the SM Seaside Complex that brings recreation and leisure together in one destination. 

Cebu continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the country's most dynamic travel destinations, offering visitors a diverse mix of attractions, experiences, and activities that go beyond its renowned beaches and heritage sites. As part of its SM for Cebu commitment, the most-loved SM malls in Cebu continue to bring together shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and leisure experiences, giving both locals and visitors a maxed-out experience and more ways to discover, dine, play, and make the most of their time in the province.

At SM City Cebu, visitors can experience a vibrant urban destination where shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation come together in one convenient location. From leading fashion and lifestyle brands to the latest in technology, beauty, home, and everyday essentials, SM City Cebu curates one of the city's most comprehensive retail destinations, making it a preferred shopping hub for both locals and tourists. Food lovers can also explore the Food Hall, which brings together a diverse selection of dining concepts, offering everything from local favorites to international flavors in one vibrant culinary destination, while families and groups can enjoy friendly competition at the SM Bowling Center. For moviegoers, the Directors Club Cinema offers a premium viewing experience, while the first and only IMAX Theatre in Cebu remains a premier entertainment destination, offering audiences an unparalleled cinematic experience with cutting-edge projection and sound technology for the biggest film releases. With its central location and broad range of offerings, SM City Cebu provides visitors with a convenient way to shop, dine, be entertained, and unwind while exploring the city.

In Mandaue City, SM J Mall offers a distinctly different lifestyle experience, combining Japanese-inspired design and contemporary leisure concepts with shopping, dining, wellness, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the mall's Japanese-inspired spaces and discover dining destinations such as the Izakaya Terrace and Food Hall, offering opportunities to enjoy meals and gather with family and friends. Beyond dining, SM J Mall brings together retail, beauty and wellness, technology, and active-lifestyle experiences, creating a destination suited for both relaxation and recreation. Moviegoers can also enjoy the premium Directors Club Cinema, while the mall's curated spaces and lifestyle concepts provide visitors with a more experiential way to spend their day. Together, these offerings give SM J Mall a distinctive character within Cebu's growing collection of lifestyle destinations.

SM Skating offers an exhilarating ice-skating experience at SM Seaside City Cebu, giving visitors a space to glide, play, and enjoy memorable moments on the ice. 

At SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can explore an expansive mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure offerings, including the SM Bowling Center, Ice Skating, and Directors Club Cinema. Beyond the mall, the surrounding SM Seaside Complex brings together Cebu Ocean Park, Cebu Fun Park, and Thirsty Pickle, offering marine discovery, family recreation, and active sports experiences. The destination is further expanding its events and entertainment offering with the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, which hosts major concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale activities, while the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to further strengthen Cebu's capacity for conventions, exhibitions, meetings, and events.

From homegrown Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisine, SM Supermalls bring together diverse dining experiences that celebrate Cebu’s vibrant food culture.  

Cebu's diverse dining scene adds another dimension to the visitor experience, from beloved Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisines. Across SM malls in Cebu, guests can discover local favorites, homegrown brands, and international restaurants, making every visit an opportunity to explore new flavors while experiencing the region's vibrant food culture. Whether enjoying the variety at the Food Hall of SM City Cebu, experiencing Japanese-inspired dining at SM J Mall, or exploring the wide range of restaurants at SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can easily make food part of their Cebu experience.

Visitors enjoy an exciting game of pickleball at Thirsty Pickle, one of the featured lifestyle attractions within the SM Seaside Complex, offering active recreation for both beginners and experienced players. 

The growing variety of attractions gives travelers more ways to spend their day, whether enjoying marine encounters and family activities, discovering new dining and lifestyle concepts, shopping, watching movies, bowling, playing pickleball, or attending concerts and major events. By bringing together diverse lifestyle, retail, dining, entertainment, and recreational experiences, these destinations contribute to Cebu's broader tourism landscape, creating more opportunities for longer visits, repeat trips, and engagement with local businesses. As Cebu's tourism landscape continues to evolve, its growing collection of attractions reinforces the province's position as one of the country's premier travel destinations, inviting visitors to discover, dine, and play while experiencing even more of what Cebu has to offer.

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Big Thrills, Bigger Experiences in Cebu!

 

Life’s more fun when you have more access to discovering new things. From small errands to bigger adventures, you get to enjoy the best of living when you continue to expand the things you love!

SM Supermalls brings a new era of firsts to explore and discover, with exciting brands heading your way—now closer than ever, right here in Cebu. With SM Supermalls, you no longer have to travel across regions, because the best experiences are now within reach.

Sweet & Savory at SM City Cebu

Craving for some authentic Japanese food experience? Check out the newly opened YAYOI—savor the taste of traditional Japanese Teishoku, offering a completely satisfying set meal of main entrée, steamed rice, miso soup, and seasonal sides.

Lookout for these food spots heading your way this May, serving food items you’ll love closer to you:

• Manam—a celebrated Filipino bistro offering both classic and modern interpretations of traditional dishes is opening its first-in-Cebu branch this May 26.

• Ooma—a modern Japanese dining spot known for its bold flavors and creative dishes, blending traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary twists. It is opening its first-in-Cebu store this May 28.

• Café Laguna—a well-established Filipino restaurant chain, renowned for its authentic Tagalog-style dishes, bringing the comforting flavors of Luzon to the Visayas, is set to open this May 8.

• Abaca Baking Company—beloved Cebu-based café and bakery chain serving artisan-crafted breads, all-day breakfast offerings, and premium coffee selections, opening this May 10.

• Ramen Kuroda—a popular Japanese restaurant serving authentic, high-quality ramen, crafted with homemade noodles and rich, flavorful broths.

Indoor Sports & Japanese Favorite Meals at SM J Mall

The experience of Japan continues in Mandaue City, Cebu with Yuki-Kun—savor Japanese cuisines, featuring familiar flavors and beloved dishes available at the mall’s Food Hall area. 

Expect more fun soon with even more First in Cebu experiences: 

• Ramen Nagi—authentic, customizable ramen bowls featuring rich, savory soup and handcrafted noodles, because your J Mall experience isn’t complete without a sizzling bowl of this Japanese favorite. 

• iSwing Golf Arena—enjoy a round of golf without the scorching heat of the sun, all thanks to their indoor, high-tech golf simulation experience. 

Coffee & Treats at SM Seaside City Cebu 

Satisfy your sweet cravings with these new dessert and dining destinations opening their first stores in Cebu:

• Beard Papa’s—Japanese cream puff chain known for its freshly baked choux pastries which opened last April 25.

• Conti’s—the Filipino bakeshop beloved for its iconic cake specials and signature comforting savory dishes, opened its first-in-Cebu store last April 30.

Giving coffee lovers more to look forward to, the rapidly growing Pickup Coffee headlines their upcoming first-in-SM premium café concept, offering elevated brews perfect for a productive lifestyle.

Never run out of things to add to your itinerary. Explore beyond limits and discover exciting firsts here in Cebu with SM Supermalls.

Expand your horizons here in Cebu—only here at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

BEST NEW Firsts in Cebu: Little Escapes Made Just for You

 

This month, Metro Cebu welcomes you with feel-good flavors, playful finds, and cozy new spots to enjoy. With the long weekends giving more time to unwind, it’s the perfect chance to explore something new—whether you’re craving a quick bite, refreshing your routine, or simply slowing down.

In this bold new era of SM Supermalls, evolving finds are waiting for you–where everything is thoughtfully chosen to match the way you live from hanging out with friends to relaxing solo. From dining to lifestyle, these new experiences are here to make everyday moments in the spaces you already love even more special, because we truly got it all for you here at SM Supermalls.

Where Delight Awaits You in SM City Cebu

In the heart of the city, SM City Cebu keeps things exciting with spaces and experiences that feel fresh. Its expanded mix features curated brands, exceptional dining, and premium finds—all handpicked to fit the way you shop, connect, and relax. From carefully selected lifestyle picks to specially chosen finds, here are a few worth checking out to make your next visit even more memorable.

Smart Home Innovations

• Dyson - This first in Cebu is ready to turn your everyday chore into something you’ll actually look forward to! Step into a world of sleek design and smart technology here at SM City Cebu—where tasks, from cleaning to hairstyling, will feel less like a chore and more like a treat. From effortless hair styling to powerful home must-haves, we’re all about making your life smoother, smarter, and a little more stylish.

Italian Favorites

• Cibo - Craving the kind of comfort only a perfectly twirled forkful of pasta can give? We’ve got you. At Cibo in SM City Cebu, you’ll find Italian classics made the way they should be—fresh, flavorful, and timeless. From hearty pastas and wood-fired pizzas to refreshing salads and signature desserts, consider your taste buds officially on a holiday—no passport required!

Bookworm Picks

• Fully Booked x Kinokuniya - Open a new chapter at the Second Level of SM City Cebu with the first-ever Fully Booked x Kinokuniya in Cebu. Step into a world of stories and ideas—where Japanese-language titles, bestselling novels, and timeless classics meet creative journals, unique stationery, and lifestyle treasures. Every shelf invites you to discover something new, spark your imagination, and take inspiration home with you.

Your Gateway to the Unexpected at SM Seaside City Cebu

With its stunning seaside views, SM Seaside City Cebu sets the stage for experiences that feel a little out of the ordinary. From standout dining with breathtaking backdrops to unique stores and activities that will make your long weekend even more exciting, each stop is here to bring something unexpected to your day. Check out these picks worth discovering on your next day out.

Authentic Bites

• Co. Limited – Craving a little thrill on your plate? The wait is over—Co. Limited is bringing the vibrant flavors and energy of Thai street food to Cebu for the very first time. Opening September 30 at SM City Cebu, get ready to savor bold bites and an experience you won’t forget. With a fresh pairing of elevated touches, every bite is chosen to keep your taste buds on their toes from zesty salads to sizzling stir-fries! Peep this crave-worthy eat at the Upper Ground Level, Seaview Wing. 

Style Stop

• Issy – Effortless beauty makes its first mark in Cebu at the Second Level, Seaview Wing—bringing makeup and skincare essentials that are easy to use, versatile, and endlessly chic. From everyday staples to bold statement shades, each piece is chosen to let you play, experiment, and discover your own kind of glow.

From flavorful firsts to lifestyle picks, Cebu’s newest experiences are here to bring you more curated ways to enjoy your day. Whether it’s a day out with friends or a quick solo trip, there’s something new waiting for you here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Experience What’s First in Cebu

 

To live in the moment is your theme this month of June with several opportunities for joy and fulfillment heading your way.

What makes life truly rewarding is having the present moment to create meaningful memories—whether it’s by yourself or with the people you love. From sharing great food, to celebrating small wins, to saving the day after a long, arduous week—you can live your best life by making the most of today.

Indulge in having moments to cherish, and take the chance to create memories of happiness with SM Supermalls—right here in Cebu.

Moments Worth Savoring at SM City Cebu

What better way to share special moments than over delicious food? Savor memorable dining experiences with these must-visit food destinations headlining this June and July:

• Manam—finally opening this month, get ready to relish familiar yet innovative flavors with modern takes on Filipino comfort food and traditional dishes—including their signature Beef Short Rib Sinigang & Watermelon.

• Ooma—the long wait for this Japanese-inspired restaurant is over! Known for its bold takes on Japanese dishes, food lovers in Visayas can enjoy Ooma favorites including the Hanger Steak, Aburi Mixer, Ebi Tempura, and more.

• 8 Cuts Burgers—a casual restaurant serving a wide menu of burgers and sides, highlighting their custom-blended patties crafted from premium grade ingredients.

• Mo’ Cookies—a dessert haven known for its ooey-gooey palm-sized cookies come in flavors like Chocolate Chip, South Cotabato Fudge, and Nutella Crinkle, among many others.

• Din Tai Fung—a renowned Taiwanese restaurant chain celebrated for its expertly crafted xiaolongbao, along with a variety of authentic Taiwanese dishes.

Unwind and Treat Yourself at SM Seaside City Cebu

Meaningful moments don’t have to be grand—because joy can also come from small wins, small steps, and all the little things you do to show appreciation for yourself. Check out these freshly opened hangout spot:

After a long wait, the fast-growing Pickup Coffee has finally arrived at SM Seaside City Cebu with its first-in-SM premium café concept: Pickup Prime—offering elevated brews perfect for your productive lifestyle. 

Whether it’s your very first collectible item or your first time trying out makeup, there’s joy and fulfillment in treating yourself to new things and fresh experiences. Reward yourself with these first-in-Cebu stores launching this June:

• Geek PH—specialty toy and collectibles store, catering to pop culture enthusiasts, offering a wide range of action figures, blind boxes, and other unique items.

• Issy—a Filipino beauty brand renowned for its vegan, cruelty-free, and skin-friendly makeup products, bannering items designed to be versatile, easy to use, and suitable for the tropical climate of the Philippines.

• Premier Drip—a wellness lounge specializing in intravenous (IV) therapy opening their first-in-Cebu store, offering the magic of having an enhanced overall skin health, radiant glowing, and boosted immunity.

• Bangkok Kitchen Express—a Thai restaurant bringing the authentic flavors of Bangkok to Cebu for the very first time.

Parisian Bistro at SM J Mall

Take your special moments to a classic French dining experience here in Cebu. Our discerning food lovers can look forward to the opening of Salon de Thé by The French Baker—a Parisian-inspired café featuring European pastries, gourmet teas, and bistro-style dishes.

Life’s about what you do with every waking moment. Have your time, create memories worth remembering, and take center stage with lots of opportunities for joy here in Cebu—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

PayMaya powers a more exciting, hassle-free and rewarding experience at Sinulog Festival!

As millions of Filipinos gather in Cebu in time to celebrate the annual lively and colorful Sinulog Festival to honor Señor Santo Niño, they can look forward to an exciting, hassle-free, and rewarding experience with the help of PayMaya.

Whether it’s flying down to experience the traditional festivities or taking on a gastronomic adventure, PayMaya has teamed up with the biggest merchants and establishments all around Cebu to offer festival-goers seamless payments experience and exclusive cashback deals every time they use their PayMaya app or card for their transactions.

“PayMaya’s growing cashless ecosystem in Cebu allows festival-goers to have a more convenient, worry-free and at the same time, rewarding experience as they revel in the festivities of Sinulog. They can benefit from using PayMaya for any payment transactions and avoid the hassles of bringing cash or loose coins when booking flights, accommodations or activities, dining in restaurants or even buying pasalubong!” PayMaya Head of Marketing Mark Dee said.


To have a relaxing and comfortable stay in Cebu, festival-goers can check out PayMaya’s partner hotels such as Maayo Hotel, Golden Prince Hotel & Suites, Cityscape Hotels, Chambre Hotel, and GV Hotel.

They can also indulge and satisfy food cravings at uniquely Cebu restaurants accepting PayMaya QR and card payments such as Zubuchon, Bo’s Coffee, House of Lechon, Maya, Abaca, Tavolata, Luncheonette, Red Lizard, Phát Phõ, Café Racer, Lantaw, Mismukuno, Mooon Café, Sushi Boy, MyJoy, Bigby's and The Dessert Factory.

For a more hassle-free Sinulog shopping experience, they can also take advantage of using PayMaya at retail stores like The SM Store, Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Supermarket, Rustans Supermarket, Gaisano Brothers, and Prince Hypermart, and Cebu’s homegrown retail brand for pasalubong shopping, Island Souvenirs.

Theme parks such as Cebu Safari and Adventure Park and Anjo World Theme Park are also now partnered with PayMaya to bring cashless convenience for those looking for thrilling adventures or more ways to have fun!

It’s definitely more exciting to go cashless in Cebu with PayMaya as festival-goers can get up to 100% cashback when they use PayMaya QR for their purchases. Through PayMaya’s Double Cashback weekend promo, they also have two chances of scoring up to 100% cashback when they shop using PayMaya QR.

On top of that, they can also score an additional P150 when they have an accumulated spend of P5,000 via PayMaya QR, and another P150 when they spend the same amount using the PayMaya card! This promo runs until January 31, 2020.

If you don’t have your own PayMaya account yet, there’s time to sign up before flying off to Cebu for Sinulog weekend! Get P50 when you download the PayMaya app and upgrade your account using the code: PAYMAYASINULOG.

To find out more about all the exclusive deals that you can get with your PayMaya account, visitwww.paymaya.com/deals or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

The 49th PMAP Annual Conference

Now on its 49th year, the Annual Conference of the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) will be held on September 12 to 14, 2012 at the Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City. With the theme, “REVOLUTIONIZING PEOPLE MANAGEMENT! GREAT MINDS, BOLD CHANGES, UNPARALLELED RESULTS”, this year’s Conference reflects the wave of revolutions on the political front and how businesses and organizations share the same challenge of not only changing our leaders but also changing the way we lead people. As people managers, we say that a change OF men is no longer enough. What we need is a change IN men!

The first two days of the Conference will feature plenary sessions with CEO’s and thought leaders who will tackle the changing business environment and discuss the strategic role of HR in leading and executing HR programs to transform and support business goals. The focus areas of these sessions are; “Deepening Leadership Bench”, “Driving Innovation”, and “Accelerating Talent Development”.

The third day of the Conference will feature breakout sessions and workshops with topics on Talent Acquisition; Organizational Change, People Productivity and People Engagement.  There will also be a SITE BEST PRACTICE TOUR that will showcase best practices of four companies based in Cebu City.  Delegates will also be able to actively participate in creating and managing their own agenda around the central theme of the Conference through OPEN SPACE TECHNOLOGY.

For registration and other inquiries, please call PMAP at tel. no. 726-1532 or email pmap@pmap.org.ph. You can also visit www.pmap.org.ph and follow their Facebook fanpage at PMAP1956  for updates for upcoming events and other activities.